Mean Streets
Performance & Direction: Mean Streets Review
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Mean Streets (1973) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.1/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Mean Streets features a noteworthy lineup led by Robert De Niro . Supported by the likes of Harvey Keitel and David Proval , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Mean Streets
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1973, Mean Streets is a Drama, Crime film directed by Martin Scorsese. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Robert De Niro.
Story Breakdown
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. A small-time hood must choose from among love, friendship and the chance to rise within the mob. The screenplay takes time to develop Robert De Niro's journey, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: We meet the main character in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Robert De Niro's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings character arcs to their natural conclusion, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's core themes.
Thematic Depth
The film delves into universal human experiences including love, loss, identity, and belonging. It holds up a mirror to society, asking difficult questions about morality, choice, and consequence.
What Works & What Doesn't
✅ Strengths
- Solid execution of genre conventions
- Engaging moments that showcase the creators' vision
- Competent performances from the cast
⚠️ Weaknesses
- Some narrative choices that feel predictable
- Occasional pacing lulls in the middle act
Ending Explained: Mean Streets
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Martin Scorsese, Mean Streets resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Robert De Niro, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Mean Streets reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Mean Streets Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Mean Streets incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a drama, crime film directed by Martin Scorsese, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Robert De Niro's character.
Historical Context
The film balances historical fidelity with cinematic storytelling. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
The production demonstrates respect for its source material, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Mean Streets adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Mean Streets?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Robert De Niro or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Box Office Collection: Mean Streets
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $500.0K |
| Worldwide Gross | $3.0M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Mean Streets Budget
The estimated production budget for Mean Streets is $500.0K. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Mean Streets
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Mean Streets Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoMean Streets Parents Guide & Age Rating
1973 AdvisoryWondering about Mean Streets age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Mean Streets is 111 minutes (1h 51m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.1/10, and global performance metrics, Mean Streets is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1973 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mean Streets worth watching?
Mean Streets is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 7.1/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Mean Streets parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Mean Streets identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Mean Streets?
The total duration of Mean Streets is 111 minutes, which is approximately 1h 51m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Mean Streets
How Mean Streets Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Mean Streets
No reviews found for this filter.
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
